1801 Cary Map of the World on Mercator Projection

Title

A New Chart of the World, on Mercator's Projection: Exhibiting the Track & Discoveries of themost Eminent Navigators, to the Present Period. 1801 (dated) 18.25 x 20.25 in (46.355 x 51.435 cm)

Description

A very nice example of John Cary's wonderful 1801 Map of the World on Mercator's Projection. Details the entire world as it was known at the turn of the 19th century. Displays the continents in considerable detail but offers only minimal information in the Arctic and Antarctic latitudes. Cary designed this map to illustrate the explorations of the previous century, focusing specifically on the important discoveries of Cook, Vancouver, Perouse, and Gores. The map further offers copious notations on explorations and unconfirmed discoveries throughout. Prepared in 1801 by John Cary for issue in his magnificent 1808 New Universal Atlas.

Cartographer

John Cary (1754 - 1835) was a London based cartographer active in the early part of the 19th century. Ronald Vere Tooley, the prominent English map historian, writes of Cary, "As an engraver he was elegant and exact with fine clear lettering and great delicacy of touch." Cary began his work as an engraver, cartographer, and globe maker in 1776 with his New and Correct English Atlas. This important atlas represented a new phase in cartography where accuracy and detail rose in prominence over the decorative embellishments of the 18th century. This change was indicative of the times when travel and commerce were expanding globally as never before. Cary's mastery of both engraving and cartography resulted in a series of seminal works that redefined mapmaking in the early 19th century. His stupendous Cary's New Universal Atlas, published in 1808, set the standard for all cartographers who followed. Cary reissued this seminal atlas in 1811, 1819, 1824, 1828, 1833, 1836 and 1844. Cary also did considerable work on the English Ordinance Survey prior to 1805. His cartographic work particularly inspired the Edinburgh school of cartography as represented by John Pinkerton and John Thomson. In America, Cary's work was used as the basis for Tanner's important New American Atlas. Cary's last published atlas appeared posthumously in 1844, however, by 1850 Cary's work was being carried on by his sons and other well-known cartographers including James Wyld, John Tallis & Company, and Crutchley.

Source

Cary, John, Cary's New Universal Atlas, containing distinct maps of all the principal states and kingdoms throughout the World. From the latest and best authorities extant. London: Printed for J. Cary, Engraver and Map-seller, No. 181, near Norfolk Street, Strand, 1808.

Condition

Very good conditon. Original centefold. Margins very narrow all around. Oxidized.

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